On 6 November 2025, the EU-ASEAN Sustainable Connectivity Package (SCOPE) – Seafarers – Technical Assistance, implemented by NTU held its 1st Project Steering Committee (PSC) Meeting in the Philippines, co-chaired by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) and the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Mobility and Transport (DG MOVE).

The meeting brought together key Philippine maritime agencies and partners, including the EU Delegation to the Philippines, MARINA, the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), and the MARINA Multi-Sectoral Governance Council (MSGC).

The discussions centered on strengthening maritime governance by reviewing the Terms of Reference governing the Committee, discussing the Inception and Progress Reports, and endorsing the Project Work Plan for the next phase of implementation.

MARINA Administrator Sonia B. Malaluan reaffirmed MARINA’s commitment to working closely with the EU Delegation, NTU International, and national maritime stakeholders to enhance the Philippines’ implementation of the STCW Convention. She emphasized the project’s important role in improving national systems and expressed appreciation to DG MOVE for its continued support to the Philippines and its seafarers.

The meeting concluded with remarks from Ms. Fotini Ioannidou, who highlighted that the discussions enabled the project to regain structure and a clear strategic direction. She underscored the importance of strong national leadership in building a sustainable maritime governance framework and reaffirmed DG MOVE’s commitment to supporting the Philippines in delivering lasting reforms.

This meeting marks an important milestone in advancing sustainable maritime connectivity, deepening the EU–ASEAN partnership, and supporting the Philippines’ vital role in the global maritime sector.